Fleet Mechanic 1

Darling Ingredients•Clinton, IA

About The Position

The Mechanic 1 conducts routine maintenance and basic repairs on trailers, diesel- and gasoline-powered vehicles, and plant equipment. This role develops core competencies in fleet equipment maintenance under the supervision of Mechanic 2, Mechanic 3, and Fleet Managers. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time. The position performs preventive maintenance and repairs on fleet vehicles and plant vehicles and equipment, including wheel loaders, skid steers, man lifts, scissor lifts, backhoes, lawn mowers, and farm tractors. It also supports inspections, basic diagnostics, shop organization, maintenance documentation, roadside service calls when required, and ongoing training and certification. The company describes itself as a practitioner of circularity, transforming materials from the animal agriculture and food industries into ingredients for people, animals, crops, and renewable energy. Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver's license.
At least 1 year of experience in vehicle maintenance or a related technical field.
Personal basic tool set for preventive maintenance, based on location.
Basic understanding of diesel and gasoline engine operation and components.
Experience with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment.
Experience with basic computer tasks and fleet software.
Detail-oriented and highly organized.

Nice To Haves

Class A CDL preferred; it may be required depending on location requirements.
Brake certification preferred; certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire date.
Vocational training preferred.
Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
Self-starter and self-motivated.

Responsibilities

Perform preventive maintenance and repair work on fleet vehicles, plant vehicles, and plant equipment, including wheel loaders, skid steers, man lifts, scissor lifts, backhoes, lawn mowers, and farm tractors.
Review driver vehicle inspection reports and conduct repair inspections as directed by Mechanic 3s and/or the Fleet Manager.
Perform routine maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.
Inspect and replace basic components such as belts, hoses, batteries, and lights.
Assist in diagnosing mechanical issues using basic diagnostic tools.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the shop and work areas.
Document work performed and parts used through maintenance logs or fleet management systems.
Support Mechanic 2 and Mechanic 3 with complex repairs and diagnostics under their supervision.
Respond to roadside service calls for disabled vehicles when required.
Observe company safety rules and regulations and attend regularly scheduled safety meetings.
Participate in ongoing training and certification programs, traveling as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.